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Rideshare Tracking Systems Might Lead to Safer Roads

On behalf of Law Office of Jason Skala, LLC May 1, 2019

After becoming legal in Alaska in 2017, rideshare programs are quickly increasing in popularity throughout the state. As more people rely on rideshare options after a night at the bar or when they need a ride to work, accidents become a larger concern. Fortunately, Uber’s driver tracking system might lead to increased safety on roads. It could also mean heightened accountability on the driver’s part for unsafe driving practices.

Uber Is Tracking Driver Data

The massive rideshare company, Uber, uses GPS, gyroscope and accelerometer data, also known as telematics, from drivers’ smartphones to track them. The information is sent in real-time to a central computer. The company uses this data to curb unsafe driving habits and help customers stay safer.

Uber wants to use information such as driver speed, breaking and other patterns to reduce auto accidents and customer complaints. The company can send reminders to drivers to take breaks, use phone mounts and ease off the gas pedal. While employees of Uber may not love having their every move detected, customers will appreciate feeling safer during a ride.

Could This Data Be Used for Auto Accident Cases?

In a previous blog post, we discussed what options someone has after experiencing an accident with an Uber of Lyft. Insurance coverage gets complicated. Insurers may dispute claims or delay them while wading through the details of an accident case.

Could telematic information collected by Uber be used to benefit an injury victim in an accident? Uber keeps their data private and will only release it if they must, not only to protect their drivers’ information, but more so to protect their developing technology. To obtain Uber’s data from the accident, you must file a personal injury lawsuit. According to the company’s website, they will only release data when issued a valid subpoena.

It could be quite valuable to your claim if you can learn important details of the accident, such as how fast the driver was going, if they received and responded to any messages during the time of the accident and how long they had been working. This type of information could prove negligence on their part, strengthening your claim.